Joeli Yabaki, the parade commander from Naqere Youth Training Centre, has shared that receiving the Baton of Honour has deeply influenced his understanding of time management. The 18-year-old from Nabouwalu, Bua, enrolled in the carpentry program at the training facility in Savusavu.
He described the cadet passing-out parade of students from the Fiji National Youth Training Centre as a highly emotional and overwhelming occasion. The event saw a joint passing-out parade for students from two Ministry of Youth training centres, one in Naleba, Labasa, and the other in Naqere, Savusavu.
A total of 25 male and seven female cadets graduated from the Naleba centre, while 24 male and two female students completed their training in Naqere. Mr. Yabaki highlighted that the seven-week cadet training process instilled values of discipline and honesty, and educated the youth about their responsibilities as patriotic citizens.
“The training helped me develop as an individual and enabled me to make wise and timely decisions while leading the parade,” he explained. His family attended the event, and he noted that while many youths squander their time on unproductive activities, he learned the importance of engaging in meaningful pursuits.
As the overall best all-rounder, Mr. Yabaki advocated for the continuation of this cadet training annually to shape more students positively. He acknowledged the initial pressure cadets feel from the expectations of parents and teachers, but pointed out that their confidence soared with each successful drill.